Copper coil (IUD) and vaginal dryness

I went with the copper coil as I didn’t want to use hormones. I’d previously used the depot injection and noticed a huge change when I stopped, hence sticking to none hormonal. The insertion wasn’t too bad, a quick ‘nip’ and it was over. The first 2-3 months my periods were pretty bad, massive cramps which I’m not used to and heavy bleeding. They quickly settled back to normal, no cramps etc. I’ve lived with this pretty much carefree up until the last month where I found out I was pregnant. My body had ‘rejected’ the coil and started to push it out of my body, hence the failure. It’s not ideal as the reason for the coil was to avoid this, but I suppose everything happens for a reason.

As someone who has tried the pill (COC) and the implant (and does not get crazy heavy periods), the copper IUD is the best option so far.... No hormonal side effects which is great, but I do have to say the increased period heaviness is more than I expected. I bleed longer (6-7 days where previously 3-4) and there is a lot more cramping involved. Also weirdly a lot of cramping around ovulation. Still happily take the pain and bleeding over the mental health side effects of the implant and pill. Cannot wait for continued research into contraception finding even better options!

Pros - none hormonal, the placement doesn’t cause me discomfort, I can forget about it & for 3 years hasn’t caused me any concern on unwanted pregnancies. Cons - the doctor I had to insert the coil was amazing, and it was no more discomfort than a smear, however the 2-3 days following I was in a lot of pain. It did settle. I suffered with BV 2/3 times whilst my body became used to the coil in my body. Vaginal dryness is the biggest thing for me which I’ve never exp before and lastly longer heavier periods. The heavy side has taken 2 years to settle down, the random cramps and spotting has settled and less frequent and my period lasts longer. Not completely ideal for me but currently the pros of protection and being non hormonal it’s the best option for me.